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Federal Agents Begin to Use Body-Worn Cameras

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the launch of the first phase of its Body-Worn Camera Program that requires department law enforcement personnel use body-worn cameras (BWCs) during pre-planned law enforcement operations. The DOJ’s plans include a phased implementation of BWCs, and rely upon Congress to secure the necessary funding to equip agents nationwide with BWCs.

The use of BWCs by federal agents builds upon DOJ's October 2019 pilot program and October 2020 policy announcement to permit federally deputized task force officers to activate BWCs during these pre-planned law enforcement operations.

View the September 1, 2021, DOJ press release to learn more. Also see the Body-Worn Camera Toolkit, which serves as a clearinghouse for criminal justice practitioners interested in planning and implementing a body-worn camera program.

Date Published: September 1, 2021